Home-owners or lessees are responsible for appointing a certifier. They can give this responsibility to another person such as their builder. However, to ensure that their interests are protected, it is best to engage a certifier themself.

Certifying work

A building certifier, also known as a building surveyor, is needed to ensure the building plans and work is completed in accordance with the building legislation and the Building Code of Australia. The Code covers issues such as structural safety, and health and fire protection, but does not address quality of the work or finish.

A plumbing plan certifier is needed to ensure the plumbing and drainage plans comply with the standards required before the work is completed. This applies to work with a value of over $1000.

Check licensing

Certifiers must be licensed. There are three different classes of licence:

• a principal building surveyor may certify any building work;
• a general building surveyor may certify a building up to three storeys and with a floor area up to 2000 square metres; and
• a plumbing plan certifier may certify plumbing or drainage plans for commercial work.

You can find a certifier who has the relevant qualifications and experience and can check their class of licence from our list of licensed certifiers.

Check independence

A certifier must be independent. They must not have any direct or indirect financial, legal or equitable interest in the work or have any relationship whether personal, professional, commercial or financial, with you or your builder. A certifier must also not be involved in the design or construction of the work being done.

Check scope of services

Some certifiers may provide additional services, such as quality control, for an additional fee. However, you can engage your own representative, such as an architect or building consultant, to inspect and monitor the quality of the work to ensure it is being done in accordance with the contract.

Get quotes

Before appointing your certifier it is advisable to obtain more than one quote for the certification work. You should also agree to the method and timing of payment.

Regulation

Anyone who believes a licensed or formerly licensed certifier has not fulfilled their obligations may put their concerns in writing by giving us feedback. Complaints may result disciplinary action.